In a significant legal development, the Oyo State High Court in Ogbomoso has overturned the appointment of the new Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, and has mandated a fresh selection process for the esteemed royal position.
This decision comes after the Oyo State government had, on September 8, 2023, officially announced Pastor Olaoye as the new Soun of Ogbomoso, following the passing of Oba Jimoh Oyewunmi Agunbiade III, who had reigned for 48 years and passed away in December 2021 at the age of 95.
The legal challenge to this appointment was brought forth by Kabir Laoye, one of the contestants for the Soun title, who contended that Oba Ghandi Olaoye was ineligible for the position. Olaoye’s argument centered on perceived flaws in the appointment process.
In a pivotal ruling, Justice K.A. Adedokun presiding over the case declared the appointment of Oba Laoye to be illegal. Consequently, he ordered that the appropriate and lawful procedure be initiated to select a new Soun.
Additionally, the court dismissed three petitions presented by Adeyemi Laoye, another party challenging the appointment of the new Soun. This ruling sets the stage for a fresh and transparent selection process, ensuring that the Soun of Ogbomoso’s appointment adheres to legal standards and expectations.
